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Are Fumes From Melted Plastic Harmful Upon Inhalation?
I was boiling live combs and plastic combs and all the water dissipated and smoke filled my apartment. The plastic combs completely melted before I caught the smoke. I opened all the doors and windows but my bedroom is in the back of the apartment where there isn t any ventilation and all the smoke got sucked back there. I opened the window and turned on the fan and am trying to air it out. Can the fumes and whatever is remaining in my house cause me harm?? I ve been sitting in my house for 2 hours since the smoke happened, I m worried I am going to pass out or something. What will happen?
Wed, 29 Mar 2023
Hi,
Yes, fumes from melted plastic can be harmful upon inhalation. The smoke that was generated from the melted plastic combs contains toxic chemicals that can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. Depending on the type of plastic, the fumes can contain chemicals such as styrene, dioxins, and furans which can cause dizziness, nausea, headaches, and even respiratory problems. Prolonged exposure to these fumes can have long-term health effects.
If you have been exposed to these fumes for a prolonged period, it is recommended that you seek medical attention immediately. In the meantime, continue to air out your apartment and avoid inhaling the fumes as much as possible.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
Yes, fumes from melted plastic can be harmful upon inhalation. The smoke that was generated from the melted plastic combs contains toxic chemicals that can irritate your eyes, nose, and throat. Depending on the type of plastic, the fumes can contain chemicals such as styrene, dioxins, and furans which can cause dizziness, nausea, headaches, and even respiratory problems. Prolonged exposure to these fumes can have long-term health effects.
If you have been exposed to these fumes for a prolonged period, it is recommended that you seek medical attention immediately. In the meantime, continue to air out your apartment and avoid inhaling the fumes as much as possible.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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